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Interviewed by Sofiya Shatalin
"Protecting your family is a basic instinct. It’s why we do everything we can to keep those we love safe."
In times of war, it’s difficult to comprehend why these events happen. History feels as if it's repeating itself, but should it? One thing remains clear: as human beings, we persevere and find ways to support one another in times of need. Thorwin Properties, a Winnipeg-based property management company, recently demonstrated this spirit of compassion by helping a Ukrainian couple, Mykola and Valentyna, escape the war in their home country.
In times of war, it’s difficult to comprehend why these events happen. History feels as if it's repeating itself, but should it? One thing remains clear: as human beings, we persevere and find ways to support one another in times of need. Thorwin Properties, a Winnipeg-based property management company, recently demonstrated this spirit of compassion by helping a Ukrainian couple, Mykola and Valentyna, escape the war in their home country.
Having worked at Thorwin Properties for about a year, I’ve witnessed firsthand the company’s deep commitment to its staff and residents. Thorwin exemplifies its core values of respect, accountability, forward-thinking, and a one-team approach. When my Marketing Manager asked me to write this article, I was eager. As a Ukrainian myself, I felt a strong desire to share this important story and shed light on the current situation in my homeland.
This is the story of Mykola and Valentyna, a couple who survived a harrowing five-day journey to escape war-torn Ukraine.
A Heart-Wrenching Departure
Mykola and Valentyna are from Kryvyi Rih, one of Ukraine's largest cities, located in the center of the country. The distance from Ukraine to Canada is over 7,745 km (4,812 miles), and leaving meant saying goodbye to their home, relatives, and friends, with only prayers for their loved ones' safety and the hope of one day reuniting.
Valentyna, 72, and Mykola, 76, are retired. Valentyna worked as a government official, while Mykola was an engineer. Like many parents, they worked hard throughout their lives to provide a better future for their children. They have an older son, who remains in Ukraine to defend their country, and a daughter who lives in Winnipeg, Canada.
When I asked about their son, Valentyna told me, “Our son said he was glad we were no longer there. He can now focus on defending our country, knowing we’re safe.”
Their daughter, Raissa, had immigrated to Canada with their help many years ago. Valentyna explained, “We invested all of our savings into helping her come to Canada. We’ve always believed that if you want something, you must work for it.”
Escaping a War Zone
Valentyna and Mykola had visited Canada twice before, but when the war broke out, they initially decided to stay in Ukraine. “Our daughter asked us to come, but we wanted to stay,” Valentyna said. However, as the situation rapidly deteriorated, their daughter-in-law offered to help them leave for Poland, from where they could fly to Canada. “We had just two hours to gather our documents and pack a small bag,” Valentyna recalled. They took only the bare essentials: a pair of underwear each and their medication.
The couple faced a chaotic scene at the train station. “It was like a scene from a World War II movie,” Valentyna said. “The station was packed with people trying to escape, and we were lucky to be right next to the train door when it opened.” The train, meant for four passengers per section, was crammed with twelve. The journey to L’viv took 17 hours, spent in the dark with no lights to avoid detection. “The train staff were kind enough to make us tea,” Valentyna said, “but it was terrifying.”
Once in L’viv, volunteers offered food and water, and the couple stayed overnight in a shelter. From there, they traveled to Poland, grateful for the help they received along the way.
A New Beginning in Canada
When they finally arrived in Winnipeg on March 6th, their daughter welcomed them into her home, where they stayed with Raissa, her husband Chris, and their two children. Despite the warmth of family, Valentyna and Mykola felt uncomfortable relying on them. “We asked them to help us find our own apartment,” Valentyna said. Although they had their pension from Ukraine, it wasn’t enough to cover rent.
That’s when Chris reached out to his contacts at Thorwin Properties, where he received life-changing news. “When he told us that Kris Thorkelson, President and Owner of Thorwin Properties, had offered us three months of free rent, I couldn’t believe it. I started crying,” Valentyna recalled. The company even donated a new sofa for their apartment.
Valentyna expressed how overwhelmed they were by the kindness they received. “We have everything we need for now, including clothes and shoes, thanks to donations. We feel incredibly grateful. It’s hard to imagine how fortunate we are, especially when we talk to our son, who is still in Ukraine, and tell him how well we are being treated here.”
The Road Ahead
Although they are still adjusting, Valentyna and Mykola are determined to make the most of their new life in Canada. They’ve already signed up for free English lessons and are learning more about their Winnipeg community. “We take walks every day, learning how to take the bus and exploring the city,” Valentyna said. “We want to stay here and be close to our daughter.”
This blog post holds special meaning to me, not only because of my own connection to Ukraine but because it reminds me of the strength and resilience of people like Mykola and Valentyna. Their journey was not easy, but they are now safe, supported, and hopeful for the future.
I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mykola and Valentyna for sharing their incredible story. It’s a testament to the power of human kindness and the importance of helping those in need during the most challenging times